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A foot soldier pointed out to me that he has noticed several political yard signs without a ‘paid for’ on the bottom of them (Paulson & Srstka did not), and he was unsure of others. I know that Stehly, Noble and Neitzert do have the disclaimer on them. But it begs the question if ‘paid for’ is no longer needed on yard signs, there is no city ordinance on the topic, but there is state law, which is about as clear as mud;

12-27-15.   Printed political communications to contain certain language–Exceptions–Violation as misdemeanor. Any printed material or communication made, purchased, paid for, or authorized by a candidate, political committee, or political party which expressly advocates for or against a candidate, public office holder, ballot question, or political party shall prominently display or clearly speak the statement: “Paid for by (Name of candidate, political committee, or political party).” This section does not apply to buttons, balloons, pins, pens, matchbooks, clothing, or similar small items upon which the inclusion of the statement would be impracticable. A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Signs are not mentioned in the law, so one wonders if they are NOT exempt. Any lawyers in the house want to chime in?

3 Thoughts on “‘Paid For’ Yard Sign debate

  1. Reliable Voter on March 30, 2016 at 3:40 pm said:

    Not a lawyer, but past experience with the issue….

    “All printed materials” covers yard signs and a disclaimer should be included. I do not recall anyone being prosecuted. Following a complaint to the SOS a number of years ago, I do know a candidate who was instructed to run labels and attach them to their signs.

  2. My understanding, as a former candidate for SF school board and SD Legislature, is that yard signs *are* subject to the “paid for” requirement. The exceptions, as noted in statute, are limited to items so small that printing the disclosure would be impractical.

    One interesting omission in state statute is any campaign finance limits for school board candidates. Oops.

  3. i12doit on April 1, 2016 at 2:03 am said:

    The only thing that concerns me with the past and current climate of the Republican Party is, they might fold a yard sign and put it in their pocket and then say, “see this is small and impractical.” Anything to keep the unjust Citizens United afloat. IMHO!!!

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